peptidoglycan binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Interacting selectively and non-covalently, in a non-covalent manner, with peptidoglycan, any of a class of glycoconjugates found in bacterial cell walls. [GOC:go_curators, PMID:14698226]

Peptidoglycan binding is a molecular function associated with proteins that specifically interact with peptidoglycan, a major component of bacterial cell walls. Peptidoglycan is a complex polymer consisting of sugar chains cross-linked by peptides, providing structural integrity to the bacterial cell envelope. Proteins that bind peptidoglycan play diverse roles in bacterial physiology, including:

- **Cell wall biosynthesis and remodeling:** Enzymes involved in the synthesis, degradation, and modification of peptidoglycan often bind to this molecule to facilitate their enzymatic activity. For example, transpeptidases, also known as penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), bind to peptidoglycan and catalyze the formation of peptide cross-links, essential for cell wall integrity.

- **Regulation of cell division and morphogenesis:** Certain proteins that bind peptidoglycan act as sensors of cell wall stress or as regulators of cell division. They can trigger signaling pathways that adjust cell wall synthesis to accommodate growth and maintain cell shape.

- **Immune recognition and defense:** Peptidoglycan binding proteins in the immune system of animals and plants play critical roles in recognizing bacterial infections. They can directly bind to peptidoglycan fragments released from bacteria, triggering immune responses.

- **Antimicrobial activity:** Some antimicrobial peptides and enzymes target peptidoglycan, disrupting its structure and compromising bacterial viability. These molecules often rely on peptidoglycan binding to exert their effects.

Peptidoglycan binding proteins can exhibit different binding modes, ranging from specific recognition of particular peptidoglycan motifs to broad interactions with the overall structure. These interactions can involve various molecular mechanisms, including hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and hydrophobic interactions. The specific binding properties of a peptidoglycan binding protein determine its function and its potential as a target for antimicrobial development.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (22)